The Health Benefits of Buckwheat

Buckwheat is a  fruit seed that is related to rhubarb and sorrel, so it is not a grain, but a (super) seed that therefore is gluten-free.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Although gluten normally work as a binder, buckwheat flour does have binding properties. Buckwheat is, unlike most gluten-free grains, high in fiber. Moreover, it is relatively high in protein, containing all eight essential amino acids, of which lysine.

 

Health Benefits of Buckwheat

Health promoting properties that are associated with a buckwheat-containing diet are an increased testosteron level and relaxation of blood vessels,  improved blood flow and nutrient delivery while lowering blood pressure (the perfect combination for a healthy cardiovascular system). Buckwheat is furthermore associated with the ability of lowering blood sugar levels, the risk of developing diabetes and a high blood pressure and lowering cholesterol by lowering LDL (bad cholesterol) and increasing HDL (good) cholesterol. Buckwheat may aso extend the action of vitamin C, protect against heart disease, breast cancer and other hormone-dependent cancers.

 

Nutrients that buckwheat is rich in are:

• vitamin B
• tryptophan

Positive mood influencing properties; making you feel happy, fights and prevents (winter) depression.

• copper
• 34% of manganese

 Ensures healthy bone structure, bone metabolism, helps building essential enzymes for building bones, acts as a co-enzyme to assist metabolic progression in the human body, is actively involved in forming connective tissues, absorption of calcium, proper functioning of thyroid, sex hormones, regulating blood sugar level, and metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. 

• magnesium

Ensures bone and dental health, trans-misses nerve impulses, regulates body temperature, detoxification, energy production, aids in the absorption of calcium by the body, keeps osteoporosis at bay, sooths menopausal and PMS symptoms and decreases the risk of developing osteoporosis, the risk of premature labor and heart attacks. improves parathyroid function and muscle functioning, prevents insomnia, constipation, hypertension, constipation, migraines, kidney stones and gallstones.

• flavonoids

A strong antioxidant, prevents premature (skin) aging, boosts the immune system, possibly improves kidney function on diabetic people, exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. 

• plant lignans

Lignans are anti-oxidants that play a role in estrogen reception and so are beneficial for women during or after their menopause. 

 

 

Buckwheat can furthermore be used to substitute rice and porridge. Buckwheat flour can be bought in organic stores, such as WholeFoodsMarket , EkoPlaza or online at Vitaminstore, costing € 4,25 per kilo.

 

 

Here‘s a bread recipe  containing buckwheat flour.

 

Shop buckwheat flour and other gluten free flours here